A work corner in a small flat: leave a passage first, then plan the desk
Working from home does not necessarily need a separate room. Start from the equipment you use every day, the natural light and how you move around, and leave room to walk and to store things. That is easier to adjust than buying all the large furniture at once.
List the desk equipment you really need first
Put the computer, monitor, documents and charging equipment on the desk and measure the space they actually take up. Put away items you do not use often for now, leaving room for your hands and for working. Before choosing furniture, mark its size on the floor with tape and try whether the door opens and the chair pulls out freely.
Light and background also affect use
Check the natural light at the times you usually work, and avoid glare on the screen. Video meetings need quiet and a suitable background; try adjusting the position with your existing furnishings first. Keep cables tidied away from walkways, and keep things arranged so that cleaning and switching sockets on and off stay easy.
Leave a clear boundary for the end of the working day
Use one drawer, storage box or cabinet compartment for work items, and turn the desk back into living space after work. Try it for a while before adding furniture; it will be easier to tell whether what is missing is desk space, storage or a quieter spot.
Common questions
Does a small flat have to use a folding table?
Not necessarily. Look first at how often you use it, your equipment and the passage you need; a small fixed desk or sharing the dining table may also work. Choose an arrangement that fits your daily habits.